Functions of Mass Media
The mass media serves several general and many specific functions. In general, the mass media serves information, interpretation, instructive, bonding, and diversion functions:
Information function. We have a need for information to satisfy curiosity, reduce uncertainty, and better understand how we fit into the world. The amount and availability of information is now overwhelming compared to forty years ago when a few television networks, local radio stations, and newspapers competed to keep us informed. The media saturation has led to increased competition to provide information, which creates the potential for news media outlets, for example, to report information prematurely, inaccurately, or partially.
Interpretation function. Media outlets interpret messages in more or less explicit and ethical ways. Newspaper editorials have long been explicit interpretations of current events, and now cable television and radio personalities offer social, cultural, and political commentary that is full of subjective interpretations. Although some of them operate in ethical gray areas because they use formats that make them seem like traditional news programs, most are open about their motives.
Instructive function. Some media outlets exist to cultivate knowledge by teaching instead of just relaying information. Major news networks like CNN and BBC primarily serve the information function, while cable news networks like Fox News and MSNBC serve a mixture of informational and interpretation functions. The in-depth coverage on National Public Radio and the Public Broadcasting Service, and the more dramatized but still educational content of the History Channel, the National Geographic Channel, and the Discovery Channel, serve more instructive functions.
Bonding function. Media outlets can bring people closer together, which serves the bonding function. For example, people who share common values and interests can gather on online forums, and masses of people can be brought together while watching coverage of a tragic event like 9/11 or a deadly tornado outbreak.
Diversion function. We all use the media to escape our day-to-day lives, to distract us from our upcoming exam, or to help us relax. When we are being distracted, amused, or relaxed, the media is performing the diversion function.
Which function of mass media (information, interpretation, instructive, bonding, or diversion) do you think is most important for you and why? Which is most important for society and why?
Getting integrated: Discuss media messages that have influenced or would influence you in a professional, academic, personal, and civic context.
Writing reviews
Introduction and tips (Writing reviews)
ANSWER THE QUESTION
PLAN your review.
Make sure you have at least 4 paragraphs.
Choose an appropriate title.
The introduction will talk about what's being reviewed.
Use a relaxed, friendly, chatty style.
You can use contractions such as I'm, I've etc..
Use a new paragraph for each point you want to make.
Give your opinion.
In the concluding paragraph give your opinion.
Useful phrases (Writing reviews)
What I liked
What I liked most was …..
The thing I liked most was ….
I was pleasantly surprised by …..
….. would appeal to …..
If you get a chance to ….
What I disliked
What I disliked most was …..
I was disappointed by ……
I was disappointed with …..
I was very disappointed by …..
I was very disappointed with ….
Reviews of books:
main character
is set in
comedy
science fiction
thriller
romance
comedy:
author
written by
chapter
factual
fiction
unbelievable
bestseller
chapter
ending
Reviews of films, tv programmes, plays:
lead role
star role
star
star actor
star actress
starring
secondary role
He plays a …….
She plays a …….
written by ….
is set in …..
based on a true story …..
believable
true to life
not very believable
far-fetched
comedy
romance
science fiction
ending
Reviews of hotels, restaurants, etc:
location
service
setting
attractive setting
disappointing setting
owned by
run by
head chef (restaurant)
waiters (restaurant)
staff …….
staff at reception …….(hotel)
hotel facilities ….
reasonable prices …..
good value for money …..
excellent value for money …..
expensive
a bit expensive
overpriced
not worth the money
poor value for money
always fully booked
Your teacher has asked you to write a review for a book you have read recently. The best reviews will go in the school magazine. Review the book giving your opinion and saying whether or not you would recommend it.
Write your review in 120-180 words in an appropriate style.
Your teacher has asked you to write a review for a film you have seen recently on DVD or at the cinema. The best reviews will go in the school magazine. Review the book giving your opinion and saying whether or not you would recommend it.
Write your review in 120-180 words in an appropriate style.
What don’t you like on TV?
Is there a programme on TV that you really dislike? We’re looking for reviews of programmes on TV that you really can’t stand. Tell us what you don’t like about the programme and we’ll publish the angriest reviews!
Write your review.
Role and place of mass media in contemporary human’s life
What types of mass media are popular nowadays?
1: Define: What does "addiction" mean? Can you use it in a sentence? Can you give examples?
2: Brainstorm: Brainstorm with a partner(s) words and ideas associated with "addiction" for 2 minutes. Spend another 5 minutes or less discussing the words and ideas together.
3: Title: Speculate and/or discuss the contents of today's article from its title: "Compulsive Internet Disorder"
4. Do you agree or disagree? Why?
I use the Internet at least two hours per day.
I have stayed up all night (or almost all night) to surf the Net or play an online game.
The Internet is a dangerous invention.
I couldn't live for even one week without access to the Internet!
Some people are addicted to the Internet and their computers.
Rank It!:How serious are these addictions? Rank them in order. Remember to support your decisions!
A |
The internet |
B |
Gambling |
C |
Texting messages on a cell phone |
D |
Alcohol |
E |
Cigarettes |